Final answer:
Metal detectors in archaeology are used to locate subsurface metal objects without the need for invasive digging, allowing for the preservation of the site and accurate documentation of artifacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metal detectors are utilized in archaeology to locate and map subsurface metal objects, an important part of archaeological fieldwork. Metal detectors operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction, which involves sending an electric current through a coil to generate a magnetic field. When this magnetic field comes into contact with a metal object, the object generates its magnetic field, which is detected by a second coil in the detector, causing a change in the resonant frequency of the circuit. This change signals the presence of metal, which the metal detector alerts the user to, typically through sound.
Archaeologists use these devices for several purposes, such as identifying potential excavation sites and exploring existing sites for metallic cultural artifacts, which can offer valuable insights into past human activities. The use of metal detectors enables more precise and non-invasive explorations compared to traditional digging methods, thus preserving the integrity of the archaeological site and allowing for accurate documentation and analysis.